DefinePK

Abstract

Islam has mandated the observance of the Islamic veil (hijab) to safeguard the purity, modesty, and protection of human society from turmoil and corruption. The purpose of the veil is not merely to conceal the body; rather, it is a comprehensive system that maintains moderation in the relations between men and women and preserves society from moral degradation. The Islamic veil is not simply a social tradition, but a divine command established by the Qur’an and Sunnah, with its limits, wisdoms, and sphere of application clearly explained within Islamic teachings. This system protects not only the individual but also guarantees the moral and social harmony of society.
The limits of the veil are explicitly outlined in the Qur’an and Sunnah. The Holy Qur’an commands women to conceal their adornments, avoid displaying their bodies before non-mahram men, and to live with dignity and modesty. Similarly, hadith literature details the specifics of a woman’s veil, the lowering of the gaze, and clear social boundaries. The wisdom behind the veil lies in its prevention of waywardness within society, the preservation of the family structure, the protection of women’s horon and modesty, and the establishment of purity between men and women. Islam’s injunction on the veil is not a form of oppression but a divine order aimed at honouring women and ensuring the welfare of society.
In addition, the Qur’an and Sunnah provide detailed explanations regarding mahram relationships. A woman may freely interact with her mahram relatives—such as father, brother, son, uncle, and maternal uncle—without the obligation of a veil, whereas she must observe the veil in the presence of non-mahram. Mahram are categorized into three types: by blood relation (nasab), by breastfeeding (radaa), and by marriage (musaharah), all of which are clearly delineated in the Qur’an.
Given the importance of this subject, this article will thoroughly explain the limits of the Islamic veil, its wisdoms, and the specific mahram relationships.